Strategic planning practices at National Cereals and Produce Board in Kenya

Abstract

This was a case study of National Cereals and Produce Board. The objective of the study was to determine the strategic planning practices and the challenges that National Cereals and Produce board face in pursuit of the same. The data collection instrument used was an interview guide. Personal interviews were administered to five members of staff who hold key positions at NCPB. Data was analyzed using content analysis since the study was qualitative in nature. All the respondents indicated that the strategic planning process is systematic and comprehensive. Strategic planning at NCPB is distinctly formal with well defined roles and responsibilities assigned to the key players. The Research and Development unit is charged with taking the leadership role and championing the whole process. The approach used is participatory and this allows for ownership and commitment towards the process. The process is beset with challenges, some of which are beyond the control of the organization, such as the political/government interferences. From the findings, it was recommended that the process need to be cascaded downwards at an early stage so as to encourage more commitment towards the implementation and speed up the whole process.